SWIFT Code of Indian Banks — Complete List & How to Find

SWIFT code (also called BIC — Bank Identifier Code) is used for international money transfers — receiving foreign remittances, NRI transfers, FOREX payments, and overseas wire transfers. It is completely different from the IFSC code, which is used only for domestic transfers within India.

Important: SWIFT codes shown below are the bank-level codes (headquarters). For branch-specific SWIFT codes, always confirm with your bank directly or check the bank's official website before initiating any international transfer.

SWIFT Code Format

A SWIFT/BIC code is 8 or 11 characters long:

Example: SBININBB

• SBIN = State Bank of India
• IN = India
• BB = Mumbai (head office)

When the code is 8 characters (no branch suffix), it refers to the bank's primary office and works for most international transfers.

SWIFT Codes — Major Indian Banks

Disclaimer: SWIFT codes are assigned by SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication) and maintained by individual banks. Verify the code with your bank or on the bank's official website before initiating any transfer. Codes can change after bank mergers or restructuring.

SWIFT Code vs IFSC Code — Key Differences

When Do You Need a SWIFT Code?

You need your bank's SWIFT code when:

1. Receiving foreign remittance — Someone abroad is sending money to your Indian bank account
2. NRI transfers — An NRI is transferring funds from overseas to an Indian account
3. International wire transfer — Paying for imports, overseas fees, education abroad
4. FOREX transactions — Some forex platforms require SWIFT code
5. Export payments — Foreign buyers paying Indian exporters
6. International investment platforms — Some global investment apps require SWIFT code to link Indian bank accounts

How to Find Your Bank's SWIFT Code

Method 1: Bank's Official Website

Every bank lists its SWIFT code in the "Contact Us" or "International Banking" section:

• Go to your bank's official website
• Search "SWIFT code" or "International wire transfer"
• The bank-level SWIFT code is displayed

Method 2: Net Banking

Login to your bank's internet banking portal:

• Go to Account Details or Profile
• Some banks display SWIFT code alongside IFSC code
• Or check under International Transfers section

Method 3: Passbook / Account Documents

Some bank passbooks and account opening letters include the branch's SWIFT code.

Method 4: Call Customer Care

Call your bank's customer care and ask for:

• Your branch's SWIFT code (for branch-specific transfers)
• Or the bank's main SWIFT code for general international remittances

Method 5: SWIFT's Official BIC Directory

Visit www.swift.com → BIC Lookup → Search by bank name and country (IN).

How to Receive International Wire Transfer to Indian Bank

To receive money from abroad to your SBI/HDFC/ICICI/Axis account:

Share with the sender:

1. Your full name (as on bank account)
2. Bank account number (the full account number)
3. Bank name and branch name + address
4. IFSC code (for reference — some banks/countries need this)
5. SWIFT/BIC code of the bank
6. Bank's address (registered head office / branch)

Example for SBI:

• Bank: State Bank of India
• SWIFT Code: SBININBB
• Account: [Your 11-digit account number]
• Branch: [Your branch name + city]
• IFSC: [Your branch IFSC]

Important Notes for International Transfers

1. Use the correct intermediary bank — Some small bank transfers go via a US/UK correspondent bank (intermediary). The sender's bank may ask for the intermediary's SWIFT code too. Confirm with your bank.

2. Charges apply — International wire transfers have charges (sending bank fee + intermediary fee + receiving bank fee). Typically ₹500–₹1,500 on the Indian side.

3. FEMA regulations — Inward remittances are generally allowed. If receiving large amounts regularly, ensure compliance with FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) and RBI guidelines.

4. NRE vs NRO accounts for NRIs — If you are an NRI, clarify whether funds go to NRE (repatriable) or NRO (non-repatriable) account.

5. Timing — International wire transfers take 1–5 business days depending on the corridor (country of origin).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SWIFT code of SBI? SBI's SWIFT code is SBININBB. For international remittances to SBI accounts, use this code. Verify on sbi.co.in before initiating a transfer.

Is SWIFT code the same for all branches of a bank? For most transfers, the bank-level code (e.g., SBININBB) works for all branches. However, some banks issue branch-specific SWIFT codes (11 characters with branch suffix). Confirm with your bank if they need a specific branch code.

SWIFT code vs IFSC code — which to use for sending money from USA to India? Use SWIFT code for international transfers (USA to India). IFSC code is only for transfers within India. The sender in the USA needs: your SWIFT code + account number + your name + bank address.

Does UPI work for international transfers? UPI is currently for domestic transactions only. However, NPCI is piloting UPI for international payments in select countries (Singapore, UAE, UK, France). Check with the specific country's payment system for availability.

Can I receive international transfers in a zero-balance 811 Kotak account? Yes — any valid Indian savings or current account can receive international wire transfers if the bank supports it. However, some Jan Dhan / zero-balance accounts may have restrictions on large foreign remittances. Check with Kotak bank.